Of course, one of music’s most classic ingredients is the old-fashioned handclap. But beware, striving artists: it’s trickier than you think.

Good thing you’ve got James Mercer of the Shins to show you how it’s done. In a new Funny or Die video, the indie frontman reveals the secret of how to get the best, album-ready sounds out of your hands: Clapping Butter.

That’s right, you’ve been doing it wrong this whole time! Take notes as you watch Mercer slather himself up in the video below:

If you’re concerned about your heart, however, Clapping Margarine works as a perfectly healthy alternative.

UPDATE: As a bonus, watch the Shins’ new, clap-free video for “Bait and Switch” below: